Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Welfare During Shearing Operations

Shearing is an unavoidable management procedure for woolled sheep breeds but its welfare impact depends greatly on shearer skill and handling.

Key Facts

Sheep show elevated heart rate and cortisol during shearing
Skilled shearers cause significantly fewer cuts and greater sheep compliance
Sheep handled gently before shearing show lower stress responses
Cold stress risk after shearing is significant in variable spring weather
Electric shearing tools require specific maintenance to prevent skin damage

Welfare Considerations

Shearing causes acute stress through restraint, unfamiliar handling, and sometimes skin cuts. The welfare impact varies enormously with shearer skill. Investment in shearer training and welfare-conscious handling practices can significantly reduce the stress of this unavoidable annual procedure. Cold weather shearing without shelter provision also poses significant welfare risks.

What You Can Do

Support shearer training programmes incorporating animal welfare
Advocate for animal handling requirements in shearing standards
Ensure shorn sheep have access to shelter in cold weather